Since 1974 Cyprus has been split down the middle into the Republic of
Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. However, despite having
been there nearly 30 years, the international community still does not recognise
this second state.

Historically, Cyprus has strong ties with Greece and Turkey and for much
of its existence the two communities have lived together happily. In the
1960s and 1970s diplomatic relations broke down between Greece and Turkey
and the Turks invaded the north of the island, leaving the division which
still remains today - although now it is possible to travel from north to
south and back again.

Cyprus has its fair share of historic ruins and some attractive old towns.
Unfortunately it was one of the first places in the Meditteranean to embrace
mass tourism and this has resulted in some pretty ugly connurbations, such
as notorious Agia Napa. However, away from the touristy resorts, old Cyprus
is still there as timeless as ever.